City Park

A Walk Through History

Established in 1904, this sprawling 157-acre green space has been Pueblo's communal backyard for over a century. Nestled along Goodnight Avenue, City Park blends recreational fun with natural beauty in a way that appeals to both the adventure-seeker and the afternoon lounger.

Many of the park's most charming structures - the rustic retaining walls and buildings that give the place its character - were crafted in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). These architectural spots showcase that distinctive National Park Service style that somehow manages to look both vintage and timeless.

Natural Beauty Spots

The landscape here shifts between carefully manicured areas and more wild, natural spaces. Expansive grassy fields stretch between mature trees that offer perfect shade for an impromptu picnic or a good book. The park's two water features, Horseshoe Lake and Lake Joy, provide good fishing spots that locals frequent.

Wildlife watching opportunities abound at the lakes, which attract various waterfowl from ducks and geese to the occasional eagle. Squirrels can often be seen performing acrobatics among the trees.

Must-See Attractions

Within the park boundaries, you'll come across the Pueblo Zoo - a compact but well-maintained home to animals from around the world. For a dose of nostalgia, head to "The Rides at City Park," featuring a gorgeous historic carousel from 1911, a charming miniature train, and other rides that have delighted children since 1955.

These classic amusements operate seasonally on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There's something special about watching today's kids enjoy the same rides their grandparents might have squealed on decades ago.

A more recent addition to the area is Waterworks Park, which offers cooling fun along the Arkansas River during those hot Colorado summers.

Get Moving

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them active, from tennis courts and baseball/softball fields to an 18-hole disc golf course that winds through the landscape, challenging players with varied shot requirements. When temperatures climb, the City Park Pool offers a refreshing dip.

The modern skate park draws everyone from wobbly beginners to impressive tricksters. If you prefer something a bit more laid-back, try your hand at the horseshoe pits or bocce ball courts.

The network of walking trails within the park connects to paths extending down to the Arkansas River, well-suited for a morning jog, an evening stroll, or cruising through on a longboard while taking in the scenery.

Practical Stuff

Scattered around the grounds are numerous picnic areas - some with simple tables, others with covered pavilions for when the Colorado sun gets serious. Planning a gathering? Several gazebos can be reserved at no cost by contacting park officials, making this an ideal spot for celebrations.

Public restrooms are conveniently located throughout (look for the main facility with its distinctive red roof). You'll also find drinking water stations and plenty of parking options.

Dog parents will appreciate the dedicated dog park with separate areas based on your pup's size. Four-legged friends are welcome throughout the rest of the park too, provided they stay leashed.

Community Central

Community events take place here throughout the year. Sunday food truck gatherings are popular, with vendors lining one of the park streets to create a casual outdoor dining area.

City Park welcomes visitors from early morning joggers to evening picnickers until it closes at 10 PM daily.